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The United Nations has published a sandbox framework that maps out the steps and key elements for the designing and operationalizing central bank digital currency (CBDC). First a proof of concept (PoC) is used as part of the selection process for the CBDC issuing system, and then the sandbox is used to test the basic capabilities of the platform to issue CBDC securely. Then banks and other payment service providers (PSPs) are brought in to test settlement functions. When key criteria have been met, then the CBDC can be released for pilots with real CBDC for use with selected groups of users, merchants, and other stakeholders.

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) published an article by Heng Wang on potential central bank digital currency (CBDC) design features that drive financial inclusion. From users' perspectives, CBDCs need to (i) provide low-cost and safe electronic payment services and to provide benefits like accessibility for vulnerable people, (ii) align with values, experiences, and needs of potential users, and address concerns like privacy, safety, (iii) simplify access to CBDCs (especially for vulnerable groups), easy access to CBDC wallets, user-friendly interfaces, clear terms and conditions, (iv) be tested comprehensively through pilots and sandboxes to refine their design and ensure safety, and (v) the benefits and costs should be visible and understood by users.